Masterchef comes to the Palace

After an enthralling six weeks of heats, a week of gruelling semi-finals and a week of nail biting finals, three million of us tuned in to see who would be crowned the winner of Masterchef 2008. Viewers saw the three finalists; James Nathan, Emily Ludolf and Jonny Stevenson, battle it out for victory at Blenheim Palace on Wednesday 27th February.

Since the BBC 2 coverage, the Blenheim Palace Hospitality team has been inundated with enquiries for events, ranging from small conferences to grand weddings. The Palace even received 12 wedding enquires overnight after the show was broadcast at 8.30pm!

The finalists’ challenge was to cater for the wedding of Nicola Newman and Ben Rees. The chefs were under intense pressure throughout the day, arriving at 7am to begin their preparation. At 4pm the guests arrived at The Orangery for the wedding ceremony, following which they made their way to The Great Hall where they were seated for their sumptuous evening meal.

Each course was carefully devised and prepared by the contestants, with the assistance of; Malcolm Emery, the Executive Chef for Sodexo Prestige; Billy Bush, the Blenheim Hospitality Executive Chef; and the in-house sous chef.

Starter: James Nathan
Loch Fyne Smoked Salmon Parcel, Citrus Fruit and Soft Herb Dressing
Vegetarian – Goats’ Cheese Brulée with an Asparagus Crown and Beetroot Dressing
 
Main: Emily Ludolf
Loin of British Lamb with Thyme and Mustard Crust, Baby Carrots, Wilted Spinach and Beans
Potato and Cheddar Gratin with Rosemary Redcurrant Gravy
Vegetarian - Mille Feuille of Portobello Mushrooms and Barley Risotto
 
Dessert: Jonny Stevenson
Assiette of Desserts - Burnt Orange Tart, Raspberry Panacotta & Dark Chocolate Mousse

After much deliberation on the part of the judges, John Torode and Greg Wallace, James Nathan was eventually crowned the winner of Masterchef 2008. After a demanding week of challenges, James concluded the toughest and most daunting to be the Blenheim Palace wedding – who wouldn’t!

For more information about events at Blenheim Palace contact Blenheim Palace Hospitality on 01993 813874 or email sales@blenheimhospitality.com